Mark Pope, the head coach of Kentucky basketball, is actively navigating the transfer portal as he looks to fill roster spots for the upcoming season. One of the top targets is Mackenzie Mgbako, a former five-star recruit who spent two seasons at Indiana. Standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 222 pounds, Mgbako is scheduled to visit Kentucky after conversations with the Wildcats coaching staff. Although his time at Indiana did not fully meet expectations, he averaged 12.2 points per game in his two seasons and has potential to improve under Pope’s system, particularly as a shooter and defender.
In addition, Kentucky is also pursuing other players, including Taylor Bol Bowen, a versatile 6-foot-10 forward from Florida State, and Yaxel Lendeborg, a highly rated forward from UAB. Lendeborg, who averaged impressive stats last season, is a top contender in the transfer portal and has NBA aspirations, adding to the competition for his commitment.
Kentucky’s roster decisions are impacted by recent surprises, such as Magoon Gwath, a big man from San Diego State, choosing to remain with his current team despite rumors linking him to the Wildcats.
Former Kentucky player Aaron Bradshaw is also in the portal, seeking a third school after transferring from Kentucky to Ohio State. Meanwhile, other programs like Louisville have also been active in the portal, with notable transfers strengthening their team for the next season.
Overall, Kentucky is in a crucial phase of roster development, with several key transfers on the horizon and other players making moves in the portal.
